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Northern Rock

All options are on the table, and we are therefore taking appropriate actions to ensure that they remain on the table. I was talking about depositor protection. We have also been exploring possible options to reduce both the likelihood of bank failure and the impact of failure if it does nevertheless occur. Our initial discussion period on those issues closed last week, but we intend to consult on more detailed proposals in the new year and we will legislate on that matter next year, if necessary. At home and abroad, we are learning the lessons of what has clearly been a testing time. We are also continuing to work to resolve the situation with regard to Northern Rock. As I have said today, we have set out clear principles that proposals for Northern Rock's future must meet, and we will continue to assess proposals against them so that we can protect the interests of taxpayers and depositors and the wider financial stability. I have also said once again today that we are not ruling any option in or out at this stage, but that our preference is for the company to find a private buyer. Let me conclude by saying that I believe that providing support for Northern Rock was the right decision, and that it is right to see that support through.